Over 85% of teens will experience acne in some form between the ages of 12-15 with some starting as young as 9 or 10. Not only can acne’s appearance itself impact your teen’s confidence, but there are symptoms, side effects and mental health implications associated with common acne prescriptions that parents should be aware of.
🥵 Acne Itself: Mental Health
In research studies, people with acne have said that their skin makes them feel unattractive, embarrassed or self-conscious. These feelings can cause some teens to avoid trying out for sports, getting a part-time job or participating in class and can even lead to depression and psychological issues.
“Dermatologists should keep the mental health of their patients in mind when they come in for acne problems,” said Dr. Steven Feldman, a Dermatology professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
🩺 Acne Prescriptions: Side Effects & Mental Health Implications
Side Effects of Prescription Isotretinoin (Accutane) 💊:
Prescribing Isotretinoin to teens is a rather controversial topic because it has been linked to some serious mental and physical health problems. It is a heavy-duty medication with some potentially serious side effects, so before prescribing Isotretinoin to a teenager, a doctor will typically evaluate the severity of the acne as well as the teenager's medical history and any previous acne treatments. Parents and doctors should regularly monitor the teen while taking the medication and be on the lookout for both mental and physical side effects.
- Mental / Emotional: depression; suicidal thoughts; mood swings & changes.
- Physical: irritable bowel syndrome; erectile dysfunction; dry mouth, lips, skin and eyes; nosebleeds; joint & back pain; and birth defects in pregnancies.
Side Effects of Acne Retinoids🧴: chapping, burning, itching, stinging, scaling, or redness of the skin; dry and peeling skin; darkening / lightening of the skin; headaches; nosebleeds; general pains; and sensitivity to the sun. Must not be taken during pregnancy.
Side Effects of Acne Antibiotics🧴💊: dry, flaky, or peeling skin; tingly or irritated skin; skin redness; nausea; fatigue; dizziness; upset stomach; vomiting; photosensitivity; lightheadedness; and increased sensitivity to the sun.